Collection

Norman C. Champagne (79) was born in Buffalo, NY. He was working as an oiler (maintenance) at American Standard before he enlisted. Champagne was enlisted in the military from February 1951 to February 1953. During his service period, he went to Inchon and was stationed Northeast of Munsan-Ni from October 4, 1952 to October 13, 1953. Before his discharge from the military, he served as Corporal in DOG Co. 2nd Battalion - First Marine Regiment. He was in charge of O311 Rifleman and 3531 Truck Driver, and participated in battles at Bunker Hill - Nevada Cities (Reno-Vegas-Carson-Elko), Boulder City (Hill 119) - Hook (West of Samichon River), and across the Korean Western Front (35 mi) from Panmujum to Hook near Samichon River. For his commitments, he received a Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Korean Service Ribbons with 3 stars, American Defense UN ribbon, ROK Ribbon, Korean Presidential Unit Citation, and Navy Commendation Ribbon for Guarding the Valley. After returning to the United States, he was assigned to the Naval Training Center from December to February 1953. After being discharged from military service, he returned to his old job and worked there for 17 years.